Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) led a town hall meeting in Dubai on Saturday, presenting major initiatives aimed at strengthening government support and protection for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the UAE.
In his opening remarks, Consul General Marford Angeles emphasized the importance of engagement with the Filipino community. “If we engage everyone from the community, as we always do, great things always come to light. Communication is key. To better understand, we hold ourselves to higher standards,” he said.
Deputy Head of Mission and Consul General Arvic V. Arevalo of the Philippine Embassy in the UAE described the town hall as an “effective tool to gather the community and listen to what they have to say.” He added that the event allowed the government not only to share its programs but also to hear the concerns and experiences of OFWs in Dubai and the Northern Emirates.
Contract verification goes digital
A representative from DataFlow reported significant progress in the enhanced online contract verification system, developed in partnership with MWO-Dubai. The new platform simplifies procedures, ensures data security, and minimizes manual intervention.
Applications are uploaded and screened by the system.
If no irregularities are detected, contracts are approved automatically without evaluator intervention.
This innovation has saved OFWs both time and money by reducing the need for in-person visits.
Since July, the platform has processed more than 9,000 applications, with 6,800 contracts approved, resulting in an estimated AED 400,000 in collective savings for workers.
Secretary Cacdac’s key announcements
In his address, Secretary Cacdac vowed to expand programs and protections for OFWs. “Lalo pa nating palalawigin ang mga OFW programs and protection,” he said, citing strengthened assistance for kasambahay, distressed workers, and OFWs in need of medical or health support.
Among the initiatives unveiled were:
OFW Serbisyo Caravan – returning to Dubai this November.
Action Fund – providing legal, medical, and humanitarian aid through MWO-OWWA welfare officers.
Annual free medical check-ups – to be conducted at Grand Infinity Clinic Dubai for all OFWs.
“Kumusta Kabayan” digital platform – designed to check on domestic helpers individually for safety and welfare monitoring.
Whitelisting of recruitment agencies – ensuring only accredited Philippine agencies and trusted UAE employers are recognized.
Contract compliance monitoring – protecting OFW rights on issues such as passport retention, leave benefits, and daily rest periods.
Reintegration programs – enhanced support for OFWs returning to the Philippines for good.
Cacdac also highlighted efforts to simplify processes for workers, stressing the government’s push for “red carpet, not red tape for contract verification.” He announced the integration of the eTravel and OEC systems into a single eTravel Pass, streamlining travel compliance for OFWs.
Strengthening ties with the UAE
The Secretary concluded by reaffirming the DMW’s commitment to protecting workers and deepening labor relations with the host country. “Who else will ask but the Department of Migrant Workers? We will be mindful, while strengthening the bilateral labor relations, commitment, and coordination between the Philippines and the UAE,” he said. | With a report from Gilbert Gomez
